LeBron James’ Lakers Signing Former NBA Champion in Key Role Draws Polarizing Fan Reactions
USA Today via Reuters
Oct 29, 2021; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (6) guard Russell Westbrook (0) and forward Anthony Davis (3) watch game action against the Cleveland Cavaliers during the second half at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports| Reuters
The Los Angeles Lakers have struggled to perform post their 2020 Championship campaign. The team has faced everything from injuries to roster changes, ultimately parting ways with Frank Vogel as the head coach. Despite the challenges, the LeBron James-led team is determined to make a comeback.
They seem to have started with their coaching staff, which will now be led by Darvin Ham. However, the front office seems to have zero plans of slowing down.
Sources: Four-time NBA All-Star Rasheed Wallace has agreed on a deal to be an assistant coach for the Lakers under new head coach Darvin Ham. Both were teammates in Detroit and part of the 2004 title team. Memphis‘ Penny Hardaway hinted today Wallace may join Ham in LA.
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) June 6, 2022
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As per Shams Charania, four-time NBA All-Star Rasheed Wallace will be joining the Lakers as an assistant coach, hoping to aid Ham in bringing the team together. Fans seemed invested in the Lakers’ move, hopeful of a title next year.
Fans react to LeBron James’ Lakers hiring a new assistant coach
The hiring of a new assistant coach will have Ham and Wallace working together again. They also played together for the 2004 Detroit Pistons Championship team. With the two strategizing together, the Lakers might have a better chance of bringing their team together.
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The response, however, has been mixed.
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Wow finals 2023 confirmed
— David 🇮🇱 (@David_Johnson41) June 6, 2022
Well lebron isn’t making the playoffs ever again
— Francis/Gb (@Francis_Sixers4) June 6, 2022
That's great. I love Rasheed Wallace.
— Franklin Furtz (@furtz_frank) June 6, 2022
He's been coaching for 9 years. He was on the Pistons staff in 2014. One of the most knowledgeable dudes in the game, especially when it comes to stretch big men.
— UMDET3 (@DET2335) June 6, 2022
Sorry lakers fans missing playoffs again
— Elegant (@DMVElegant) June 6, 2022
WOW😳
— Lungzzz😮💨 (@JoeT_831) June 6, 2022
Fans seem divided by the news, some excited and some disappointed. Many fans believe in the 47-year-old, who has been coaching since 2013. He was an important part of the Pistons 2004 title team and might be able to create the same magic in LA.
Unfortunately, one-half of the fans were disappointed in their choice. Many believe nothing will be able to get James in the playoffs again, and Wallace can take his talents elsewhere.
USA Today via Reuters
Mar 27, 2022; New Orleans, Louisiana, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (6) walks off the court at the end of the second quarter of their game against the New Orleans Pelicans at the Smoothie King Center. Mandatory Credit: Chuck Cook-USA TODAY Sports
Most Lakers fans are disappointed with Anthony Davis and Russell Westbrook and not even making the play-in tournament this year adds to their agony. As a result, fans think the team needs much more than a couple of coaching staff changes to win.
Can Darvin Ham turn the team around?
During his introductory news conference, Ham seemed confident about his role with the team. He focused on Westbrook as well, positive about his game and contribution to the Lakers. “I don’t know why people tend to try to write him off,” Ham said, adding that he will approach Westbrook like anyone else.
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Additionally, Ham will also focus on their defense, working with Davis and James on board. Hopefully, with Wallace, the Lakers will be able to work well as a team on the court.
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Do you think the Lakers can win another title? Let us know in the comments below.
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